Mechanical Engineering

A woman working on a robotic in a lab
PhD

About the Program

Eager to lead mechanical engineering applications in academia, industry or government labs? A PhD from Case Western Reserve University can get you there. Since we spearheaded the evolution of machinery in 1887, our team at Case School of Engineering has trained researchers who focus on advancing our field to advance human lives—from developing biologically inspired robots in partnership with NASA to creating robotic arms for remote-controlled surgery. 

Our five-year PhD in Mechanical Engineering program allows you to hone your expertise through our rigorous curriculum as you specialize in topics such as dynamics, control, and manufacturing; fluids and thermal sciences; or solid mechanics.

What to Expect

Our curriculum focuses on blending a mastery of the fundamentals of mechanical engineering with creativity, societal awareness and leadership skills to produce leaders who know how to solve the problems that most need our attention.

We cultivate a research-intensive environment and tackle everything from the integration of data analytics to the dynamics of rotating machinery, additive manufacturing, nanotechnology, robotics, combustion, heat transfer and more. Our recent innovations include a portable device to easily detect sickle cell anemia in low-resource settings, and a biohybrid robot that integrates 3-D-printed parts with a sea slug muscle to produce a cyborg-esque bot that could travel further than traditional robots.

Our inclusive and dynamic department culture nurtures collaboration between faculty, students and staff, so you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment as you explore your academic or research pursuits. 
 

Stephen Hawking said that ‘intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.’ The intelligence I gained at CWRU allows me to broaden the spectrum of possibilities throughout my life.“

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Beyond the Classroom

We place a high value on experiential learning and have created space for you to curate your ideas into products. The seven-story, 50,000-square-foot Larry Sears and Sally Zlotnick Sears think[box] is the largest open-access innovation center at a university in the United States. With design and ideation resources, prototyping and fabrication equipment, business and legal expertise, and more, Sears think[box] is the ideal place to pursue your passions or even launch a startup.


By the Numbers

#51

engineering school (U.S. News & World Report)

#45

in mechanical engineering (U.S. News & World Report)

#18

in the world for innovation (Nature Index)

Admission Requirements

If you wish to pursue this degree you must successfully pass the qualifying examination consisting of both written and oral components. We offer qualifying exams on applied mechanics, dynamics and design, or fluid and thermal engineering sciences.

When reviewing your profile for admission consideration, we require the following:

  • Completed online application
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution 
  • Statement of purpose
  • Current resume/CV
  • Transcripts
  • Test scores for GRE (waiver available)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Results of TOEFL or IELTS exam (waiver available)

Contact Us

Headshot of Nathaniel Vishner
Nathaniel Vishner
EMAE & ECIV Student Affairs Specialist
Case School of Engineering
Telephone
Email

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